What you need to know

Wednesday

Dec 5, 2018 at 2:04 PMDec 5, 2018 at 2:04 PM

Increase in PACE/PACENET eligibility

Gov. Tom Wolf signed House Bill 270, now Act 87 of 2018, which authorizes enhancements to the Pharmaceutical Assistance Contract for the Elderly Needs Enhancement Tier program, making the program available to an additional 17,000 seniors.

The PACENET program, which is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging, has not had an income eligibility increase over the past 15 years. The passage of House Bill 270 includes an increase in the income eligibility limits and the implementation of medication synchronization.

The bill provides a $4,000 increase for both single and married Pennsylvanians. Total income for a single person can now be between $14,500 and $27,500. For a married couple, combined total income can be between $17,700 and $35,500.

The increase in income limits will allow an additional 14,000 older Pennsylvanians to receive prescription drug coverage through PACENET. It also will ensure that nearly 3,000 Pennsylvanians from don't lose program enrollment due to increases in their income.

HB 270 also authorizes medication synchronization that coordinates filling and refilling of prescriptions by pharmacies or dispensing physicians for program participants who take two or more medications. When an older adult is on multiple medications they must often make separate trips to the pharmacy to have them filled which decreases the likelihood of medication adherence and taking medications as prescribed. The authorization of medication synchronization allows pharmacists to align pharmaceuticals for the senior by filling partial supplies of a prescription. This service offers added convenience and improves medication adherence, without additional out-of-pocket costs to the older adult.

Belle Reve and the Riddlesbrood Touring Theater Company will present “A Christmas Carol” at 5 p.m. Dec. 7. The show is an adaptation — with a comedic twist — of Charles Dickens' “A Christmas Carol.” Free and open to seniors. RSVPs appreciated; call 570-409-9191.

From 6 to 7 p.m. Dec. 13, Belle Reve will hold its monthly Alzheimer's Educational Series. Chris Davis, director of rehabilitation at Belle Reve, will discuss “Therapies and Fall Prevention Techniques.” Guests will learn how physical and occupational therapies can help aid in the reduction of fall-related injuries to your loved one living with Alzheimer's disease or other dementias. Davis is from Prime Rehabilitation Services, a family-owned and operated business with 20-plus years of providing rehabilitation services to senior communities. RSVP requested.

Also, throughout December, Belle Reve will be a drop-off site for unworn or gently used winter coats, hats, scarves and gloves. Donations will benefit Ecumenical Food Pantry, which will distribute to underprivileged individuals and families within the community. Bring donations between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. to 404 Harford St., Milford. For information on the organization, visit The Ecumenical Food Pantry of Pike County Facebook page.

For information or to RSVP, call 570-409-9191.

Events at Friendly Community Center

The Friendly Community Center will hold the following events at 6683 Route 191, Mountainhome.

• Paint & Pour, 7 p.m. Dec. 13. Participants may bring a beverage to enjoy while they paint. Snacks will be provided. Cost is $30; does not require membership. Payment holds a space; due by Dec. 6. Instructor: Kim Matthew.

•“Plarning” — Plastic Yarn Making, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Facilitator: Norma Krasne-Levine. Participants will turn plastic bags into “plarn,” which will be given to the Merry Mat Makers, who crochet it into sleeping mats for homeless veterans. No experience needed; just scissors. Plastic bags may be donated in clean and dry condition. Free and open to the public. RSVP requested.

• Tai Chi, 4 p.m. Tuesdays. An internal Chinese martial art practiced for both its defense training and its health benefits. The term Taiji refers to a philosophy of the forces of yin and yang. Instructor: Mario Arvelo. Included with a Members Plus Membership ($35 annual). Registration appreciated. A Tai Chi Open House will be held at 7 p.m. Sept. 20; registration appreciated.

The Retired Senior Volunteer Program seeks new volunteers to conduct interactive presentations that address situations like home fires, floods, etc.

The American Red Cross will provide all training in group sessions. Participants must be comfortable presenting the subject in a classroom setting and enjoy young children. Red Cross will provide necessary additional clearance that may be needed.

Also, blood drive ambassadors are needed to assist with registration and refreshments. Participants must be positive, upbeat and enjoy meeting new people. All training is provided. This is an ongoing volunteer opportunity. Additional clearance may be required.